Lamar Jackson Listed Day-to-Day with Back Contusion After Patriots Game
Table of Contents
Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is currently listed as day-to-day after sustaining a “important back contusion” during Sunday night’s game against the New England Patriots,according to an announcement made by head coach John Harbaugh on Monday afternoon. The injury casts a shadow over Baltimore’s playoff hopes and raises questions about the team’s reliance on its star player.
jackson Suffers Injury in First Half
The injury occurred just before halftime when Jackson was kneed in the back while in the red zone. he promptly headed to the locker room and did not return to the field for the remainder of the contest. Despite the setback, Jackson expressed optimism about his recovery, stating, “I just got kneed in the back in the red zone. I just couldn’t finish the game. I was trying.” He received a Toradol shot and attempted to throw with a trainer, but was ultimately unable to rejoin the game.
Huntley Steps Up, But Defense Falters
With Jackson sidelined, backup quarterback Tyler Huntley took the reins, leading two touchdown drives in the second half that briefly gave Baltimore an 11-point lead in the fourth quarter. However, the Ravens’ defense was unable to hold the lead, ultimately resulting in a 23-28 loss to the Patriots. Huntley completed nine of his ten pass attempts for 90 yards and avoided turning the ball over.
A Pattern of Injuries for the Ravens Quarterback
This latest injury marks Jackson’s fifth known injury of the 2023 season. He initially went down in Week 4 with a hamstring injury, which kept him out for three games. As returning in Week 9, he has battled injuries to his ankle, knee, and toe, as well as a recent illness. If Jackson is unable to play in Saturday’s game against the Green Bay Packers, it will be his third season since 2022 playing in 13 or fewer games.
Huntley Poised for Potential Start
Should Jackson be unavailable on Saturday, Huntley is expected to make his second start of the season. He previously led the Ravens to a decisive 30-16 victory over the Chicago Bears in Week 8, a win that appears increasingly impressive in retrospect. This season, Huntley is achieving career-highs in several key passing metrics, including a 76.6% completion percentage, 6.8 yards per attempt, and a 101.3 passer rating.
Jackson’s practice participation this week will be the key indicator of his availability for the crucial matchup against the Packers. The Ravens will undoubtedly be closely monitoring his progress as they navigate this latest challenge to their Super Bowl aspirations.